Diesel Nightmare: 11 Engines That Will Bankrupt Owners

Diesel Nightmare: 11 Engines That Will Bankrupt Owners
© A. Krivonosov
32CARS named the most problematic diesel engines of the past 20 years.
Author: Yulia Ivanchik, editor August 16, 2025.
Experts from 32CARS.RU have compiled a list of the most problematic diesel engines over the last two decades. These engines have caused headaches for their owners due to various issues. The list serves as a warning for prospective buyers looking to invest in a diesel vehicle.
One of the engines on the list is the ‘Volkswagen 1.6 TDI.’ This engine was plagued by emissions cheating scandals that tarnished Volkswagen’s reputation and led to costly lawsuits. Owners of vehicles equipped with this engine faced decreased resale value and expensive repairs.
Another notorious engine is the ‘Renault 1.5 dCi.’ This engine had serious reliability issues, causing many owners to deal with frequent breakdowns and high maintenance costs. Renault received backlash for the poor performance of this engine.
The ‘Ford 2.0 TDCI’ engine also made the list due to its propensity for diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues. Owners reported problems with clogged filters, leading to reduced fuel efficiency and potential engine damage. Regular maintenance and repairs on this engine were costly.
The ‘BMW N47’ engine had widespread timing chain problems, resulting in engine failures and extensive repair bills for owners. This engine’s issues highlighted the importance of regular maintenance to prevent costly breakdowns. BMW faced criticism for these reliability issues.
The ‘Peugeot/Citroen 1.6 HDI’ engine had issues with the turbocharger and fuel injection systems, causing performance issues and high repair costs for owners. Many drivers experienced a loss of power and engine malfunctions, requiring expensive fixes. The engine’s problems affected the overall driving experience.
The ‘Audi/VW 2.7 TDI’ engine faced criticism for its complex design, leading to expensive repairs and maintenance. Owners of vehicles powered by this engine reported frequent breakdowns and difficulties in finding skilled mechanics to work on it. The high costs of maintaining this engine discouraged many potential buyers.
The ‘Mercedes OM651′ engine suffered from injector and crankshaft problems, causing sudden breakdowns and costly repairs for owners. The engine’s reliability issues tarnished Mercedes’ reputation for producing high-quality diesel engines. Owners faced unexpected repair bills due to these critical failures.
The ‘Volvo D5’ engine experienced turbocharger and injector failures, impacting its performance and resulting in expensive repairs. Volvo owners dealt with decreased engine efficiency and frequent trips to the repair shop due to these notorious issues. The engine’s problems led to dissatisfaction among owners and raised concerns about Volvo’s diesel engine reliability.
In conclusion, prospective diesel vehicle buyers should be aware of the potential pitfalls associated with these problematic engines. Careful research and consideration should be undertaken before investing in a diesel vehicle to avoid the costly consequences of dealing with unreliable engines.